Assault is a serious criminal charge that can carry substantial penalties. While many arrests are classified as misdemeanors, more severe offenses are considered felonies. A felony assault conviction may result in years of imprisonment, hefty fines, and additional consequences.
If you are being charged with felony assault in Mankato, it is crucial to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Legal counsel can help you challenge these charges or minimize their impact on your life and future. Before pleading guilty, speak with a compassionate assault attorney to explore your options.
A person commits assault when they harm another individual, attempt to hurt them, or place them in immediate fear of injury. Various factors can lead to more severe penalties, including the use of deadly weapons or targeting specific groups of people.
Under state law, there are five degrees of assault charges, each with the potential for harsh penalties.
This is the lowest tier of assault charges and typically a misdemeanor. However, a person may face severe penalties under certain circumstances. First-time offenders face a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail, while individuals with two prior convictions may be sentenced to a maximum of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Fourth-degree assault is only considered a felony in Mankato when the alleged victims are members of a protected class. This includes public servants, such as police and firefighters, and vulnerable people like the elderly. Even a first offense can result in a prison sentence of one to three years.
Someone may be charged with third-degree assault if the incident caused substantial bodily harm or the alleged victim was under a certain age. The state classifies this offense as a felony, with a maximum prison sentence of five years.
These charges involve the use of a dangerous weapon. As the second-most serious type of assault offense, second-degree convictions may lead to up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
First-degree assault is always treated as a felony. To reach this degree, an individual must be found guilty of causing immense bodily harm, using deadly force, or wielding a dangerous weapon. The maximum term is 30 years in prison and a $30,000 fine.
A lawyer can help a person understand their charges and the possible implications, ensuring they make informed decisions throughout the process.
Several defense strategies may be used to defend against felony charges and secure a favorable verdict in a Mankato assault case. A driven attorney can help someone develop a compelling defense and safeguard their rights in court.
Often, self-defense is the most effective strategy in these cases. Everyone has the right to protect themselves from a genuine threat of imminent harm and may use force that would otherwise be illegal in other circumstances.
Other defense options may be available depending on the specific facts of a case, including defenses such as defending others, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. A lawyer can assess potential strategies and help an accused individual develop a robust defense tailored to their situation.
If you have been charged with felony assault in Mankato, hiring experienced legal counsel can provide essential support during this challenging time. They can help reduce the charges or potentially avoid a conviction entirely. Choosing the right lawyer may significantly influence the outcome of your case. Schedule a consultation with our team today for personalized legal support.
